Wiring diagram for a 13 pin tow bar socket and plug

Many caravans built after 2008 have the new 13 pin connector for the electrical connections to the car. Whilst coupling up the 13pin plug to the connector takes a bit of getting used to as it requires a twist connection it does offer a few advantages.

The connection is secure and the lead is unlikely to fall out

single socket connection which is less intrusive than the 2 socket system

However, many people find that they need an adapter as their car and caravan have different connections e.g. 12n & 12s on a car and a 13pin on the caravan. Don't worry, you can get an adapter.

Pin

Colour

What it does

1

Yellow

Left Indicator

2

Blue

Rear fog light

3

White

Earth

4

Green

Right Indicator

5

Brown

Right Tail Light

6

Red

Brake Light

7

Black

Left Tail Light

8

Pink

Reversing light

9

Orange

+ve from battery

10

Grey

Fridge - only active when the engine is running

11

White / Black

Earth for the fridge (pin 10)

12

not used

Not used at present

13

White / Red

-ve from battery (pin 9)

When connecting up a new socket or plug ensure that the wires are in good condition. Often, over time, moisture will get in the plugs and sockets and cause corrosion on the wires. These can cause poor connections resulting in the connected devices not working at all or not how you would expect.

The new 13pin connections are a little tricky to connect. Our video shows you how to do this